Drawstring Backpack

This is a great little backpack/sack that draws closed at the top.

The original pattern for this backpack is here: http://www.creativeneedlemag.com/feature/feature1ja00.html but the instructions were so unclear I made an instructable. It's a great project but doesn't make sense the way it's written.

Step 1 Materials

(directly from the original pattern)
Materials
5/8 yd. fabric (bag)
1/2 yd. lining fabric

Cut one piece of fabric 14" x 36" for bag. Cut two straps 2 1/2" x 33". Cut two pieces for bag lining 14" x 15 1/2".

Comments

[Annette M]

Thank you so much for this great bag! I found the directions and pictures very clear. I had found something similar elsewhere on the web, but I just couldn't "get it." This was perfect. Now that I have the idea, I can't wait to make more. My sons want overnight bags for sleepovers and I have some cute sari material that I will make into a small purse. Thank you so much for this! Very nice job!

[MissSmurfsnot]

I made the bag today, for my little girl. she loves it and as its only my second sewing project I'm really proud. I did cheat slightly though, I didn't use a lining. Its only a P.E kit bag and will be smelly and muddy in no time! Great Instructable, the practical ones are the best for me.

[dsosborn9]

I think I got it! As a newbie sewer, I didn't understand that you fold it all the way in half, instead of just folding it at the seams. Once I did that, it all worked together very nicely.

[dsosborn9]

I'm guessing you sew up the whole after you turn it through. I didn't understand about the outer fabric turning in, and then realized that it was naturally where the seam already was. I think it's all coming together now! I'm getting excited!

[dsosborn9]

What about the part in the middle? If the original fabric is 36 inches, and the 2 lining blocks are 15 1/2 inches each, you'll have four left over. Is that right? Should I match them in the middle and leave 2 inches on each end? Or sew them to the ends and leave the middle bare? Am I just sewing the ends, or the sides, too? I apologize for the simple questions - I'm a new seamstress. Thanks!

[crazyq]

cool bag! I will probably make several for my freinds. Thanks.

[ejay]

I just wanted to thank you for clearing up the original pattern for me. I found it a couple of days ago and could not figure it out at all. I was searching for another pattern and found yours. Your instructions helped.

[evy-wevy]

WOAH!